The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is being urged to expedite the resolution of disciplinary complaints against judges and magistrates in order to ensure timely delivery of justice. Justice Tadeo Asiimwe, President of the Uganda Judicial Officer’s Association (UJOA), emphasized the need for swift decisions in disciplinary cases rather than prolonged delays.
Over the years, some lawyers and members of the Judicial Service Officer’s Association have criticized the JSC for its inconsistent application of legal due process. There have been allegations that the commission has been slow in handling controversial petitions involving influential individuals within the judiciary.
Speaking at the annual UJOA conference, attended by both physical and virtual participants, Justice Asiimwe called on judicial officers to uphold professionalism and warned of the consequences they may face if found guilty of misconduct. He expressed regret over cases where UJOA members were dismissed from the judiciary as a result of complaints filed with the JSC, without disclosing specific names.
While acknowledging the commendable work carried out by UJOA, Chief Registrar Sarah Langa Siu, represented by the Registrar in charge of the Inspectorate of Courts, Amos Kwizera, raised concerns about issues such as tardiness, absenteeism, and corruption among judicial officers. Kwizera highlighted how such behavior contributes to delayed justice and urged UJOA members to embrace the core principles of transparency, equality, and integrity within the judiciary. He emphasized the importance of seeking guidance from seniors and promoting dialogue instead of confrontation when facing work-related challenges.
Established in 1970, the Uganda Judicial Officers Association (UJOA) is an umbrella organization representing judges, registrars, and magistrates. Its primary objectives include advocating for the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, as well as safeguarding and upholding the constitutional independence of the judiciary.
The call to expedite complaint hearings by the Judicial Service Commission aims to address concerns regarding the timely resolution of disciplinary cases, ensuring a fair and efficient judicial system that serves the interests of justice and the public.
